More than 1,000 business leaders packed the hotel ballroom for the 10th Annual Boston Spirit LGBT Executive Networking Night, hosted by Boston Spirit magazine, in the hopes of hearing Baker either declare support for the transgender bill or at least pledge not to veto the measure if it reaches his desk.

But Baker infuriated many in the crowd, some of whom held signs that read “Trans Rights Now,” when he hedged.

Baker said he would “make sure I talk to all the parties involved” if the legislation comes to him. He also did not say whether he would veto the bill.

The bill in question, known as the public accommodations bill, would prohibit bias against transgender people in restaurants, shopping malls, and other public areas.

I have to say - you attend an LGBT networking event, and you can't offer clear, strong support to the people you're addressing?

How embarrassing for what is typically a very progressive state to have such a weak leader regarding LGBT rights. #Sad